Well, isn't Venn daring! The encounter with Helena was a lovely read. I like the fact that Venn doesn't know how to react to Helena, it's a really interesting thing to see in such an (apparently) assured character!

Also, I spotted the reference to orange blossoms in your author's note, and it reminds me (linking this to chapter 3): I love the fact that you made Helena an artist! It gives her some kind of independance and place to escape from reality, which I really like, instead of making her a character restricted by social boundaries and intolerant parents...

Great chapter!

Author's Response: Yeah, he comes across as self-assured but he's pretty awkward. He doesn't know quite how to handle women, especially one he sort of likes. I think it's cute watching him trip over his own feet.

Yeah, I like that, too. I should bring that back in at some point. She's very independent, but not so extremely that she shuns societal expectations entirely. Poor girl just wants to be happy, you know? I'm glad you like her.